Accademia Bizantina

Accademia Bizantina was formed in 1983 Ravenna with the intent to make music "like a large string quartet", with equal dedication, participation and collective satisfaction. With the same "chamber" approach today as then, the group is entirely run by the members, who together decide objectives and guidelines.


Since 1996 Ottavio Dantone (who had already been playing the harpsichord of the group since 1989) and Stefano Montanari (lead violin) have collaborated in total harmony to provide the musical direction of the ensemble, covering respectively the roles of music director and of concertmaster, melding together the best of their human and artistic qualities.


The collective intent, in every phase of work, is that of combining philology and the study of the praxis of original instruments, with careful and respectful study of the score, as in the most noble tradition of Italian chamber music.


The discipline and refinement of Ottavio Dantone, the energy and inspiration of Montanari, the enthusiasm and complicity on the part of each instrumentalist, weave together like the tiles of a Byzantine mosaic, placing the Accademia among the most refined and vivacious ensembles of antique music today present on the international stage.


The Accademia Bizantina is today accredited, by the most qualified critics, as one of the best ensembles operating in the interpretation of the Italian musical production through the 17th and 18th century. Its repertoire particularly stands out for its rigorous style, the colourful interpretation and the skilful technique on original instruments. The ensemble has established itself as an orchestra of incredible vitality and energy, whose repertoire ranges from Monteverdi to Spontini.


The Accademia Bizantina is often invited to prestigious international festivals and halls in Salzburg, Lucern, Ravenna, Holstein, Cervantino, and arranges concerts and tournees in Europe, Israel, Mexico, the USA, Japan and South America.


Accademia Bizantina has made numerous recordings for Denon Columbia, Arts, RCA, Decca, l'Oiseau Lyre, Harmonia Mundi, Naive, and Amadeus, many of which have been awarded prizes such as Diapason d'Or (2005) and Midem. Their their Decca recording of Arias for Senesino with Andreas Scholl was received with great acclaim.) and has been broadcast in live radio transmissions from Radio France, Rai Radio Tre, RSI and WDR. Bach Cantatas